Bucci's J Bella — Restaurant in Strongsville

Went to this restaurant yesterday evening with 3 friends. Upon arrival, we were added to a 40 minute wait list. Once our reservation was called, we were seated at a high top table, where 2 of our table’s seats butted up against the bar seating. The restaurant was very crowded to begin with, but also lacked appropriate spacing between seating, which was surprising given the recent pandemic. After our drink order was quickly taken, our table began to feel very cramped due to a group of 5 people at the bar walking back and fourth, occupying the very small space separating our table from their bar seating. While walking, one of my friend’s purse got knocked on the ground. My friend stated aloud what had happened, received an apology and then asked the person who knocked her purse to please sit down to create more space. The person quickly became defensive and hostile, screaming that there was “no where to sit.” In addition, the other 4 people at the bar began to chime in, spewing drunken profanity at us. The hostess recognized the situation, and called for a manager. The manager moved us to another table in hopes to remedy the situation. However, given the verbal abuse we received from the very intoxicated group of 5 at the bar, we requested they be asked to leave. The manager assured us that we would not be bothered, even as much as looked at by them, and comped our entire bill. The manager also stated that the group at the bar had closed their tab, and would be leaving soon. After we finished our meal, we noticed the rude group of 5 still partying at the bar. So as no surprise, when we walked past the bar to leave, we were harassed with rude comments once again. If it were not for the delicious meal and top notch server, I would have given the review a zero. It is completely unacceptable and disgusting that management did not cut off the belligerent group of 5 at the bar and ask them to leave immediately. Shame on management for packing the restaurant past capacity, and for wanting that type of clientele in their...

After 5, it is nearly impossible to get seated so that tells you lots of people like it....we arrived at 4 to beat the crush. Though our server Nancy had only recently joined the staff, she was ready to address all our concerns and kept every thing following at the right pace (only shortfall was forgetting the pepper mill for our salad). Portions for appetizers, stuffed peppers and an order of meatballs were generous. Taste was on target. Tuscan salad was nicely prepared and try the white zinfandel dressing. Eggplant was stacked high and baked with cheeses. The chicken parmesean was moist with a crispy breading. Sauce was serviceable, and appeared freshly prepared with good tomato flavor but lacking much in the way of herbs. Companion's rigatoni was cooked right but the angel hair served to me was mushy. Asked for a replacement with more al dente feel and was served pretty much the same thing. Obviously, pasta not drained as well as the moisture diluted the sauce. Maybe they cater to more American tastes and that crowd does like the Chef Boy ar dee canned style since they dId serve my angel hair with a spoon! Something an authentic Italian eatery would never do. Server was apologetic but never saw manager (always a sign of a good restaurant when management makes a showing to acknowledge the client...here I get it, plenty of customers and that's the way we make it...forget about it) Good effort, and not the worst Italian food...that would be Del Sangros on Snow. May give it another try another time but...

A Memorable Italian Feast at J Bella in Strongsville

Our visit to J Bella in Strongsville was nothing short of exceptional. Arriving late in the afternoon, we were promptly seated and immediately felt welcomed by the attentive and friendly staff. The service was quick, ensuring that our dining experience began on a positive note.

The menu offered a wide array of Italian classics, and our choices did not disappoint. My son indulged in the Spaghetti and Meatballs, which arrived in a generous portion. He savored every bite and thoroughly enjoyed the dish.

My wife opted for the Veal Parmesan, and she was astounded by the sizable piece of veal that almost covered the entire plate. She described it as excellent, but the portion was so generous that she decided to take some home in a box.

As for me, I ventured into something unique and tried the Pork Osso Bucco, a slow-roasted pork shank with a rich demi sauce and creamy mashed potatoes. The meat was incredibly tender and effortlessly fell off the bone. This dish, not commonly found in other restuarants, was a revelation, and I'm already looking forward to returning for another culinary adventure.

Overall, our experience at J Bella was superb. The combination of quick and friendly service, ample portions, and the outstanding flavors of each dish left a lasting impression. J Bella is undoubtedly a gem in Strongsville's culinary scene, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking an unforgettable...